Return fraud

nails1

Hi I sell many electronic items online such as computer and telephone parts, battery replacements etc. In the past number of months I've had a few people attempt to return faulty products which they claim to have purchased from me. Although products are identical to what was originall bought they weren't the actual ones from me as I realised from serial codes and a number of other methods. I believe the customers were attempting to return the faulty product to me so as to make financial gain. When I pointed out it wasn't my product they claim they must have made an error. But is this a good enough excuse. Is it possible to take legal action for attempted return fraud as some of these products cost 500/600+ which I would have to pay out of my own pocket to replace, thanks.

Peregrinus

If you detect that the item is not the one you supplied and do not pay a refund, you're not at any loss so I don't see that you could sue.

If they are doing this dishonestly, this would be an attempt to obtain money by false pretences, which is a criminal offence. You could report them to the guards. But they won't be prosecuted unless it can be proven, and not merely suspected, that they are acting dishonestly.